Production of salinity tolerant tilapia through interspecific hybridization between Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)

Abstract

The present work aims to produce a salinity tolerant fish through interspecific hybridization of Nile tilapia,Oreochromis niloticus × Red tilapia, Oreochromis sp. Growth performance, proximate body composition and feed utilization of the offspring produced of Nile tilapia, red tilapia and their diallelic interspecific hybridization under different salinity levels were evaluated and heterosis values were estimated for weight gain and specific growth rate. The results of most of the productive performance traits and heterosis values indicated a maternal effect and suggest that the hybrid of (♀ Red tilapia × â™‚ Nile tilapia) can be produced and reared at different salinity levels up to 32 ppt, as economic value compared to purebreds and reciprocal hybrid. Key words: Salinity tolerance, Nile tilapia, red tilapia, productive performance, heterosis, interspecific hybridization.